Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo are the strongest contenders for the Best Player in Europe title this year. As journalists across the world cast their vote on August 29, fans would be hoping to have their favorite player clinch the award.

The three emerged on the shortlist after a second preliminary vote whittled down an interim 10-strong list. The three had very good games in the respective leagues.

UEFA president Michel Platini began the initiative two years ago in partnership with the European Sports Media (ESM) group with Messi and his Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta winning the first two editions.